The woman who police say was beaten repeatedly over a five-day period in Westmoreland County says her alleged attacker is haunted by the murder of his daughter.

James Lang Jr., 56, is in jail facing charges including simple assault, harassment and recklessly endangering another person. State police say he beat his girlfriend at their Derry Township home last week, punching her in the face, slapping her and gouging her eyes.

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Samantha was Lang's daughter, who was killed seven years ago at the home where she lived with her father. Investigators said someone ransacked the house and slit the 22-year-old woman's throat. No one has been arrested in that case.

Simms said Lang often turns violent when he becomes depressed about his daughter's death, and binge-drinks alcohol. Even so, she doesn't believe he belongs in jail.

"I believe that he needs to be evaluated, to see if he needs help coping with his daughter's death," Simms said.

Neighbors called police after the most recent beating at the couple's home. Officers could not find him Friday. Simms said Lang was at home during the search, but was hiding under their trailer. When police returned, he hid in some nearby woods.

Lang was finally arrested Monday at the couple's home. He was with Simms.

Despite the repeated violence, Simms said Tuesday she will take Lang back when he gets out of jail.

"I know we both truly love each other, but it's like fatal love," Simms said.